Explore the Old World Charm of Varanasi

“Varanasi with its divine ambiance and old world charm is one of the most interesting and sacred cities of the world. In this blog, we have a peek into the mysticism of this sacred land.

Varanasi is known to be the oldest living city in the world. Unveiling the hidden charm of this great city is only possible by taking a trip to this holy place. Varanasi is a must-see destination for someone who is taking an Indian heritage tour of India.

Quoting Mark Twain: “”Benaras (presently called as Varanasi) is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together””.

There are some sites that should definitely be a part of everybody’s heritage tour to Varanasi. Situated on the banks of the mighty river, Ganges, Varanasi houses number of shrines within it. Some of the most famous ones are – Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, and Durga Temple. Kashi Vishwanath Mandir is the most famous among these temples, and it enshrines the Jyotirlinga of Shiva. Even though the temple has been destroyed twice, it is still standing tall with all its dignity.

Another alluring aspect of Indian vacation in this city, is its long line of ‘Ghats’ along the river. They make a beautiful sight at dawn. The stairs of these ghats come alive with people and a lively atmosphere that resounds with tradition, as soon as the first rays of sun touches them. The best way of exploring real Banaras is hiring a boat and sailing through the Ganges river. The boat ride will give a wonderful visual of pilgrims and sadhus taking their ritual bath, and then praying to the rising sun.

Among all the ghats, Dashashwamedha and Manikarnikaghats are most important. Dashashwamedhaghat is known for its evening ‘aarti’, whereas Manikarnikaghat epitomizes creation and destruction. It is the famed cremation ghat of Varanasi. Participating in the aarti ceremony of Dashashwamedhaghat, is one of the most wonderful experience anyone can have.

Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals and is known as the Gateway to Salvation. Such is the divinity of this place.

Not only is the city religiously significant, there are other attractions in Varanasi, such as the Ramgarh Fort and Banaras Hindu University. The Ramgarh Fort is known for its collection of vintage cars. A luxury Indian holiday in Varanasi will surely be one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life.
The Maharajas’ Express luxury train takes its guests on a heritage tour to Varanasi, on one of its exclusive packages known as the Indian Panorama Journey‘. The trip begins in Delhi and then moves on to Jaipur, Ranthambore, FatehpurSikri, Agra, Gwalior, Khajuraho and then Varanasi. After Varanasi, the train moves along to Lucknow, and the journey finally concludes in Delhi.

In Varanasi, the itinerary would include visiting places like the Silk Weaving Center, followed by lunch at Vivanta by Taj. After lunch the guests will visit Sarnath, known for its buddhist heritage, after which there will be a boat ride in the Ganges where guests can see the famous evening arti. They finally they would return to the train for dinner and an overnight stay.”